Beagles and basset hounds are two of the most popular dog breeds. They’re both family-friendly, relatively low-maintenance, and make great companions. But you should know some key differences between these breeds before deciding which one is right for you.
The Beagle and the Basset Hound are tricolor hunting dogs about the same size. But that’s where the similarities end. The Beagle has a square head, big brown eyes, and short legs. Bassets have long ears that almost reach the ground and a droopy face.
Like other dogs of the type, Beagles were originally bred to hunt in packs, so they have a strong prey drive and a lot of energy for a hunting dog. However, as Beagle owners, you should remember that they need daily exercise and can become destructive if left alone for too long. Bassets were bred to track deer and rabbits, so they have a strong sense of smell like any other hound dog. But they’re also quite laid-back, making them good dogs for families with small children or other pets.
Basset Hound vs Beagle: 10 Key Differences
Though both Beagles and Basset Hounds are small-sized dogs, you must know some key differences before bringing home any of these breeds.
Here are ten key differences between beagles and basset hounds:
1. Basset Hound vs. Beagle: Size
The biggest difference between these two dog breeds is size. Beagles are much smaller dogs, standing only 13-16 inches tall at the shoulder. On the other hand, Basset hounds are much larger dogs, typically measuring between 14-15 inches tall at the shoulder.
Though both the Beagle and the Basset Hound are considered small- to medium-sized dogs, there can be a significant difference in their size. The Basset Hound has a body length of up to 35 inches, and Beagles can be up to 25 inches.
2. Basset Hound vs. Beagle: Appearance
Though both dogs have a similar size, their physical features are quite different. Beagles have square heads with large, brown eyes. They also have short legs in comparison to their body. On the other hand, Basset hounds have long faces with droopy eyes. In addition, their ears almost touch the ground, and they have long bodies compared to their legs.
The Beagle has longer legs and a smaller body length than the Basset Hound. Basset Hounds have small legs and a huge physique similar to a Dachshund. They also have a longer snout, which gives their head an angled appearance.
3. Beagle vs Basset Hound: Coat
Beagles have a smooth, dense coat that can be any color or combination of colors. The most common colors are black, tan, and white. Basset hounds also have a smooth coat, but it’s much longer and coarser than the beagles. They come in various colors: black and tan, black and white, tricolor, and red and white.
The Basset Hound has a drooping appearance that is apparent in its coat, much like a bloodhound. The Beagle’s coat is shorter and can be any color.
4. Basset Hound vs. Beagle: Temperament
Beagles were bred to hunt in packs, so they have a strong prey drive and a lot of energy. They need daily exercise and can become destructive if left alone for too long. Bassets were bred to track deer and rabbits, so they have a strong sense of smell. But they’re also quite laid-back, making them good dogs for families with small children or other pets.
5. Beagle vs Basset Hound: Exercise
Beagles are high-energy dogs that need a lot of exercises. They were bred to hunt in packs, so they have a strong prey drive and require daily walks or runs. If left alone for too long, they can become destructive. Basset hounds are much lower energy dogs and only need moderate exercise. Though they enjoy walks and runs, they’re just as content lounging around the house.
6. Basset Hound vs. Beagle: Training
Beagles are intelligent dogs that are easy to train. However, their hunting instincts make them stubborn and difficult to potty train. Bassets are also intelligent, but their laid-back personality makes them easier to train than beagles. They’re quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement.
7. Basset Hound vs. Beagle: Life expectancy & Health
Beagles have a life expectancy of 12-15 years, while basset hounds typically live 10-12 years. Beagles are generally healthy dogs but susceptible to certain health conditions, such as epilepsy, hypothyroidism, cherry eye, and hip dysplasia. Basset hounds are also prone to health problems like obesity, elbow dysplasia, von Willebrand’s disease, and ear infections.
8. Basset Hound vs. Beagle: Maintenance
Beagles require moderate maintenance, and their short coats must only be brushed once or twice a week. However, they also need daily exercise, preferably in walks or runs. Basset hounds have high-maintenance coats that must be brushed weekly to prevent mats and tangles. They also need moderate exercise but are content with a daily walk.
Grooming Beagles is not as time-consuming as grooming most other dogs. A Basset Hound’s coat, on the other hand, is very high-maintenance.
9. Basset Hound vs. Beagle: Noise Levels
Beagles are known for their loud, howling barks. They bark at anything that catches their attention, which can annoy some people. Basset hounds are much quieter than beagles and only bark when they sense danger or something out of the ordinary.
10. Beagle vs. Basset Hound: As Family Pets
Both dogs make great family pets. Beagles are friendly, loving, and playful. They get along well with children and other animals. Basset hounds are also good for families, but they may be better for households with older kids because of their laid-back personalities.
Beagle vs. Basset Hound: Which Dog is Right for Me?
Beagles and basset hounds are great dogs for families with children or other pets. They’re also both relatively easy to train and low-maintenance dogs. However, there are some significant differences between the two breeds. For example, beagles require more exercise and have higher energy levels, while basset hounds are content with a daily walk and lounge around the house.
Beagles also have a strong prey drive and may not be the best choice for homes with small animals. A basset hound may be the better choice if you’re looking for a low-key dog that doesn’t require a lot of exercise. But a beagle may be the right fit if you don’t mind an energetic dog breed and are willing to give them the exercise they need.
Research which dog breed would best suit your lifestyle before deciding. And remember, Beagle or Basset Hound, all dogs need love, attention, and plenty of exercises – no matter what breed they are!
